By Shina Abubakar, Osogbo
A civil society coalition in Osun State, The Osun Masterminds (TOM), has expressed concern over what it described as the use of state institutions against opposition figures ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
The group’s Executive Director, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, called for restraint in the deployment of security agencies, alleging that opposition politicians, activists and critics were being harassed and intimidated.
In a statement, Oyedokun-Alli said the coalition had received reports alleging politically motivated arrests, arbitrary detentions and selective law enforcement targeting opposition figures, political activists, media commentators and civic voices in the state.
He said: “As we enter the final stretch before the August 15 governorship election, The Osun Masterminds expresses deep concern over the alleged trend of politically motivated arrests, arbitrary detentions and selective law enforcement targeting opposition figures, political activists, media commentators and critical civic voices across Osun State.
“Reports reaching our coalition indicate what we consider a disturbing pattern where state power and police machinery are allegedly being used to settle political scores, suppress dissenting political views and instil fear within opposition campaign structures.
“We have documented several instances where individuals expressing critical political opinions on social media or participating in peaceful political activities were allegedly arrested, taken to police facilities or subjected to prolonged detention without prompt arraignment. Such practices, if established, are inconsistent with constitutional democracy and fundamental human rights guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution, as amended.”
The group urged the Nigeria Police Force, particularly the Osun State Police Command and the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), to remain professional and impartial in the discharge of their duties.
“The Police Force is funded by taxpayers to protect the lives, liberty and property of every Nigerian, regardless of political affiliation. It must not be used as a tool for partisan interests or political vendettas,” he added.
The coalition also appealed to traditional rulers across the state to remain neutral and promote peaceful coexistence ahead of the election.
Oyedokun-Alli expressed concern over reports and videos allegedly showing some traditional rulers participating in partisan political activities, endorsing candidates and making political pronouncements.
“Our coalition is concerned about the increasing involvement of some traditional rulers in partisan politics ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
“The traditional institution in Yorubaland, particularly in Osun State, occupies a revered position as the custodian of culture, values, peace and communal harmony. Traditional rulers are expected to be fathers to all citizens irrespective of political affiliation.
“We respectfully appeal to all royal fathers across Osun State to preserve the neutrality and dignity of their thrones. Royal palaces should remain open to all candidates and citizens, serving as centres of peace, counsel and reconciliation rather than partisan political activities.
“We also urge political candidates and government officials not to pressure or induce traditional rulers into making political endorsements. The dignity of the traditional institution should be protected from partisan politics,” he said.
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